Summary of Study
The study, titled “Hyperbaric Oxygenation for Lyme Vasculitis” by W.P. Fife, Ph.D., and R.A. Neubauer, M.D., aims to explore the potential benefits of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) as an adjunct treatment for Lyme disease, specifically targeting severe encephalopathy. Lyme disease, caused by the Borrelia spirochete, often proves difficult to treat effectively with antibiotics alone due to the spirochete’s ability to evade treatment by hiding in protective tissues. This study investigates whether HBOT, combined with antibiotics, could improve treatment outcomes and alleviate severe symptoms associated with Lyme disease.
Methodology
Researchers treated 91 patients with Lyme disease at Texas A&M University’s hyperbaric facility. Of these, 75 patients completed a treatment course ranging from 40 to 120 hyperbaric sessions. Each session involved HBOT at 2.36 atmospheres absolute (ATA) for 60–90 minutes, with oxygen delivered via masks or hoods in a multiplace chamber. Additionally, 12 patients with severe cerebral involvement due to Lyme disease were treated at the Ocean Hyperbaric Center using a similar protocol. These patients underwent Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) scans before treatment and at intervals to monitor brain function changes during and after HBOT.
Results
In the Texas A&M study, 75% of the participants completed their treatment regimen, with most experiencing significant symptom relief. The improvements lasted between three months to six years, with 67% of patients continuing antibiotic therapy during and after HBOT. Similarly, at the Ocean Hyperbaric Center, patients with neurological Lyme disease showed clinical improvement and enhanced SPECT scan results. One patient experienced reduced seizure activity, while others reported better memory, reduced fatigue, and decreased joint pain.
Conclusion
This study supports the use of hyperbaric therapy for Lyme Disease as a viable treatment, particularly for those with severe or chronic cases that do not fully respond to antibiotics. HBOT appears to enhance the penetration of oxygen into tissues where the Lyme spirochete may reside, potentially aiding in spirochete eradication and immune system support. While further research is needed to fully understand HBOT’s role in treating Lyme disease, the findings suggest it could be a valuable tool for managing complex Lyme disease cases, especially those involving neurological symptoms.
Source: Hyperbaric Oxygenation for Lyme Vasculitis | W.P. Fife, Ph.D., and R.A. Neubauer, M.D.